Back in October I had the opportunity to attend the Virginia Girl’s Summit at George Mason University. My 13-year-old sister Taylor joined me and I was thrilled! Because of our age gap I don’t get to bring her with me to most of the events I cover. However this was the perfect event to bring her along. Not only did we both enjoy the summit, but we also had a chance to tour of the University. Although she’s been on several college campuses, this was the first time Taylor took an actual campus tour. Being able to experience her first college tour together was indeed a special moment for me, thus making it my favorite event of the year!
The theme, Own Who You are and Rock the World, immediately caught my attention. I’ve been all about owning who I am and representing myself in the best way possible since I can remember. Showing my greatness to the world is something that was instilled in me as a child. Taylor knows and understands the importance of this message as well.
Watching her navigate through the event, on her own, all the while making conversation and connections with her peers (and adults) was awesome. I was so proud of the way she handled herself. Taylor also attended some really great sessions including the following:
We’re in this Together | This session focused on time management, dreams, passion, stress, fun, joining clubs/sports teams, and expectations from teachers and parents.
Bad Blood | The topics covered in this session included what does a good friendship look like, how to get out of a bad friendship, how to change groups of friends and how to deal with losing your friend to her new boyfriend. Not to my surprise, this was Taylor’s favorite session. 😉
I Want Candy | Stress, eating, nutrition and exercise were the topics of discussion during this session. Taylor learned so many great tips on healthy eating and many fitness tips!
Before, after and in between the sessions, Taylor (and I) had a chance to listen to the incredibly inspiring panel of speakers. News Anchor of Good Morning Washington and ABC7 News at Noon, Autria Godfrey, was the emcee and welcomed the audience with an uplifting and heartfelt speech. She spoke on social media and pointed out that “everyone posts the best of the best on social media” and reminded the audience “not to compare our real lives to someone’s highlight reel.” Now that was a word, indeed!
Below are the names of the panelists, and the keynote speaker, as well as a few motivating and inspirational nuggets they shared.
– Bethany Mota, Keynote Speaker (YouTube Star) | Self confidence doesn’t happen over night. You have to train yourself to be confident; it takes time. Focus on the passion and the content, not the views, and don’t let your fears hold you back.
– Ashley Graham (Body Activist, Designer & Supermodel) | Words to my 17-year-old-self? It’s ok, calm down. You won’t get everything you want right away.
– Willa Doss (Teen Entrepreneur and Creator of Willa Skincare) | You don’t need to be older to make an impact on your community.
– Pooja Chandrasheker (Founder of ProjectCSGirls) | See and know where the gaps are and fill the need.
– Rachel Hankers (Singer and American Idol Contestant) | Discover who you are and run with it!
Taylor & Ashley Graham
Bethany Mota Signing Taylor’s DIY Sneakers
So tell me, have you ever heard or attended the Virginia Girl’s Summit? What’d you think about the recap? Let me know!
All in all the event was absolutely amazing! From the speakers, sessions, swag bag and attendees, I was beyond pleased. Taylor and I cannot wait to attend the next year’s event. The Virginia Girl’s Summit did an excellent job and I applaud them for creating such a needed and uplifting event for today’s young girls. For more information visit their site HERE. Thanks for reading, sharing and commenting and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!
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